2008
Aston Martin
DBS

Base Coupe

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Review

2008
Aston Martin
DBS Review

A beautiful and astoundingly powerful sports car that gets the driver where he or she wants to go in comfort.

Reviewed by Automotive on
12/20/2008

Overview

The 2008 Aston Martin DBS moves faster than any previous Aston Martin. The aerodynamics of the DBS’s super sleek body enable it to cleanly slice through the air. Starring as James Bond’s ride in ""Casino Royale,"" the 2008 Aston Martin DBS is a modified version of the highly sought-after DB9. Its pronounced fenders and chiseled fascia echo Daniel Craig’s tough, muscular Bond. ""A tough guy in a dinner suit"" is how the DBS's designer Marek Reichman describes this flagship Aston Martin.

The Range

What's New

The Aston Martin DBS is brand new for 2008.

Exterior

The exterior of the 2008 Aston Martin DBS features body-colored front and rear bumpers; chrome trim around the side windows and on the sides of the body; heated, body-colored, power-folding mirrors; and projector beam lens xenon headlights with headlight cleaners. Other standards include a fixed rear window with a defogger, tinted glass on the cabin, and variable intermittent wipers. Buyers choose from an array of 23 exterior colors.

Interior

The interior of the 2008 Aston Martin DBS is styled with the fine craftsmanship typical for Aston Martin vehicles. The entire interior uses Alcantara suede and ultra-soft leather coverings, with carbon fiber trim on the doors and alloy and leather trim on the center console and dash. Topping it all off, an elegant key fob is made of sapphire crystal.

The center stack controls look classy and user-friendly. The cockpit features a central LCD screen layout with easy-to-read gauges. The interior of the DBS comes loaded up with impressive standard features, such as bucket seats, multi-level heated seats, four-way power passenger and eight-way power driver’s seats, power-adjustable lumbar support, and a height-adjustable driver’s seat.

The DBS includes a considerable number of convenience features, such as remote power locks, cruise control, cup holders, remote trunk release, door pockets, a universal remote transmitter, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel with stereo controls, front and rear parking sensors, and 12-volt power outlets.

Drivers feel the lap of luxury with all of the comfort features, such as alloy trim on the shift knob, carbon and leather trim on the doors, and leather-wrapped steering wheel. It also includes an electrochromatic rear-view mirror and memorized seat settings for three drivers.

Entertainment features include an AM/FM stereo with an in-dash, six-disc CD player that uses 5.1-surround audio and a 700-watt output. Also standard are Bluetooth wireless data link, a navigation system with voice directions, and pre-wiring for an in-car phone.

Performance & Handling

When one considers the V-12 engine that kicks out 510 horses, it would be a gross understatement to say the DBS moves fast. With a curb weight of only 3737 pounds, it goes from zero to 60 mph in a little under four seconds, and it reaches an amazing 176 mph. High-speed stability increases due to the sills that manage the airflow along the sides of the DBS. While speed and power may be the top priorities, the DBS’s compliant suspension, soft leather and adjustable seats with lumbar support make this a great car to drive on a trip or long commute. A six-speed manual provides the only transmission option.

Even with all its power, the 2008 Aston Martin DBS seems strikingly easy to drive. The clutch feels light, and shifting proves precise. The steering feels responsive, and the cabin offers very good visibility.